What it is about
During a shiva visit to the Danino family, mourning for their son Ori Danino who was taken hostage and killed, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara encountered dissatisfaction from the bereaved rabbi, signaling Netanyahu’s growing political and social isolation.
Why it matters
The incident sheds light on tensions between Netanyahu and sections of Israeli society, including some previously seen as his strong supporters. The Prime Minister’s exchange with the mourning family reflects disconnect and dissatisfaction that extends beyond political circles into the social fabric of Israel.
The Big Picture
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu aimed to offer condolences to the Danino family, whose son Ori Danino was executed by Hamas. Ori hailed from a society associated with the Shas party, typically supportive of Netanyahu. However, Rabbi Elhanan Danino, a respected figure within the community, confronted Netanyahu, claiming he failed to act against Hamas’s capabilities, accusing him of negligence.
Emotional Context
During an intensely emotional visit, Rabbi Danino accused Netanyahu of historical complacency, stating, “For 15 years you sat quietly, didn’t do a thing. You equipped them with swords, you equipped them with tunnels and dollars. You did nothing.” The accusations caught Netanyahu off guard.
Netanyahu’s Response
Netanyahu defended his past actions, detailing his personal sacrifices, and the actions he has taken against terrorism. Sara Netanyahu joined the interaction, asserting that the criticisms leveled by Rabbi Danino were based on external influence, which further inflamed the situation.
The Reaction
The Danino family expected empathy and understanding, not confrontation. Rebuke was delivered instead of comfort. “You don’t know me,” Rabbi Danino retorted to Sara, clearly feeling patronized and insulted as a mourner in his own home.
The Takeaway
This interaction emphasizes Netanyahu’s growing political and social isolation even among base voters, underscoring a fracturing rapport that could impact his leadership. Rabbi Danino called for unity, implying that without it, Israel’s leaders fail the nation. His plea, however, seemingly fell on deaf ears.
Final Thought
The episode with the Danino family highlights that certain social sections feel disconnected from Netanyahu’s leadership, seeking empathy and accountability. Listening becomes vital in times of national tragedy, an aspect that this interaction missed reflecting.
This story was first published on jpost.com.